Tennessee defeats Georgia Tech 45-24 in Atlanta

No. 18 Tennessee defeated Georgia Tech 45-24 in Atlanta on Saturday night. DeSean Bishop led the Volunteers with 147 rushing yards and two touchdowns, while freshman quarterback Faizon Brandon contributed two passing touchdowns. The victory moves Tennessee to a 2-0 record and has resulted in the team rising to No. 14 in the AFCA Coaches Poll and No. 15 in the AP Top 25.

The game was marked by a serious third-quarter collision involving Georgia Tech defensive back Jaylen Mbakwe, who hit his head on teammate Jordan Walker's knee. Mbakwe was stretchered off the field and taken to Grady Memorial Hospital for precautionary observation. Georgia Tech head coach Brent Key reported that Mbakwe was talking and responsive, and the player later provided a positive update via social media, stating he was ‘good’ after being released from the hospital.

Georgia Tech quarterback Alberto Mendoza and running back Justice Haynes addressed the loss, noting challenges with execution and decision-making. The Yellow Jackets fell to a 0-2 record following the defeat.